[size=55:2trlcjly]OPP 22 November 2010

UK house prices will fall in 2011, but not in London

UK house prices are predicted to fall by 4% in 2011 overall, but will rise in London and the surrounding areas, according to predictions from Hamptons International. Head of research Adam Challis says “our 2011 house price predictions reflect the distinct differences we expect for economic recovery in the North compared with the South of the country. In addition, austerity measures will be harder on northern cities that have a greater dependence on public sector employment”.

London prices are predicted to rise by 5%, while Greater London will see an increase of 3%, according to figures. Challis says this is based on “improving financial and business services prospects in the city, adding that “ongoing exchange rate weakness for the pound will help support international demand, which currently makes up seven in ten buyers of prime property”.